Although it may seem difficult to improve upon an eternal fairy tale, this delightful and somewhat lengthy reimagining of the Cinderella story surprisingly offers a fresh perspective even to those well acquainted with its classic narrative. Most scenes were filmed in various regions of France by cinematographer Andrew Dunn, known for films such as «The Perks of Being a Wallflower» and «What a Girl Wants». The majestic Château d'Hautefort in the Dordogne region perfectly accentuated the fairy tale narrative and served as the main location for the film. Other notable locations featured in the film include the historic castles of Fénelon, Lanquais, Losse, Beynac, and the charming town of Sarlat-la-Canéda. Two more places worth mentioning are Château de Fénelon and Château de la Roussie, which depict Danielle's home. Château de Fénelon, with its stunning medieval structure, was the primary filming location for the Barbarac family home. Today, it is a national heritage site visited by tourists from around the world.

Filming Locations:

Barbarac Estate

In the Movie

Scene where young Danielle de Barbarac welcomes her new stepmother Rodmilla de Ghent and her two daughters to the family home. Unfortunately, her father, Auguste de Barbarac, a wealthy French landowner, soon dies of a heart attack.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the historic Château de Fénelon. This beautiful medieval structure in France is now a national heritage site open to tourists. The castle holds historical significance as the birthplace of the famous archbishop François Fénelon. Several notable films have been shot here, including «The Last Duel» (2021) and «Vice and Virtue» (1963). To visit Château de Fénelon, head to the Dordogne region in southwestern France.

Danielle's Room

In the Movie

Scene where Marguerite, Danielle's stepsister, tries on a dress that once belonged to the girl's mother. The dress is now part of Danielle's dowry. When the young woman discovers them, the baroness allows her to attend the ball to divert attention from her daughter's shameful actions.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Château de la Roussie in Proissans, France. This stunning 19th-century castle, built on the ruins of an old castle from the second half of the 16th century, provides an authentic and picturesque setting for the film. It can still be visited today. Château de la Roussie also offers luxurious guest rooms.

Throne Room

In the Movie

Scene where Rodmilla appears before the respected royal court. The queen accuses her of lying about Danielle and, as a result, strips her of her title and threatens exile unless someone speaks in her defense. Now a princess, Danielle asks for kindness toward Rodmilla.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the historic Château de Losse in France. Its Renaissance architecture made it an ideal location for filming a historical drama. Listed as a monument in 1928, Château de Losse is part of the collection of historic castles of the Dordogne. Productions such as «In Search of Thrills» and «The First Musketeer» were filmed here. The castle overlooks the Vézère River and is a stunning 16th-century residence built on the foundations of a medieval fortress.